Characterized by inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the joints, it can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. While oral medications and physical therapy are common treatments, many patients find long-lasting relief through arthritis injections. This article explores the different types of arthritis injections, how they work, who they’re for, and what to expect during treatment.
What Are Arthritis Injections?
Administered directly into the affected joint, they offer localized relief, often with quicker and more targeted effects compared to oral medications. These injections are commonly used for various forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout.
Unlike systemic treatments that affect the whole body, injections focus on specific problem areas—most often the knees, hips, shoulders, hands, or spine. They can be a suitable option for patients who cannot tolerate oral medications or are not yet candidates for surgery.
Types of Arthritis Injections
1. Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroids are synthetic versions of the body’s natural hormones and are powerful anti-inflammatory agents. These injections are frequently used for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Mechanism: They reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response in the affected joint.
- Effectiveness: Pain relief can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
- Limitations: Repeated use may weaken tendons and cartilage; most doctors limit use to 3–4 times per year per joint.
2. Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in joint fluid that helps lubricate and cushion the joint.
- Usage: Often used for patients with knee osteoarthritis who haven’t responded to other treatments.
- Benefits: Helps restore joint lubrication, reducing pain and stiffness.
- Duration: May take a few weeks to become effective, with relief lasting up to 6 months.
- Considerations: Not all insurance plans cover it, and it may not work for everyone.
3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
PRP injections are a newer, regenerative approach that uses a patient’s own blood. The blood is processed to concentrate platelets, which are then injected into the joint.
- Mechanism: Platelets contain growth factors that help repair damaged tissue and reduce inflammation.
- Effectiveness: While not universally proven, many patients report improvement in symptoms lasting several months.
- Cost: Often not covered by insurance, costing between $500–$1,500 per session.
4. Biologic Injections
For autoimmune forms of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, biologic drugs are injected either under the skin or directly into the bloodstream.
- Examples: TNF inhibitors like Humira (adalimumab) or Enbrel (etanercept).
- Usage: These target specific parts of the immune system to reduce chronic inflammation.
- Frequency: Biologics are often given weekly or bi-weekly.
Who Can Benefit from Arthritis Injections?
Arthritis injections are particularly helpful for:
- Patients with moderate to severe joint pain.
- Individuals who cannot tolerate NSAIDs or oral steroids.
- People seeking alternatives to surgery.
- Patients who need quick relief for localized joint symptoms.
However, injections are not suitable for everyone. Your doctor will consider the type of arthritis, severity of symptoms, and overall health before recommending them. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs may be done to confirm joint damage and inflammation before proceeding.
Procedure: What to Expect
Receiving an arthritis injection is a straightforward process, usually done in a clinical setting.
- Preparation: The skin around the joint is cleaned and sometimes numbed with a local anesthetic.
- Injection: Using a fine needle, the doctor delivers the medication into the joint space.
- Aftercare: Most patients are advised to rest the joint for 24–48 hours post-injection.
Side effects are typically mild and may include temporary swelling, redness, or soreness at the injection site. Rare complications include joint infection or allergic reaction.
Risks and Side Effects
While arthritis injections are generally safe, they do carry some risks:
- Infection at the injection site (though rare).
- Pain flare in the joint shortly after injection.
- Cartilage damage from repeated steroid use.
- Allergic reactions (especially with hyaluronic acid or biologics).
It’s important to discuss your full medical history with your doctor before starting any injection therapy to avoid interactions or complications.
Conclusion
Arthritis injections offer a valuable treatment option for those struggling with joint pain and inflammation. From corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid to advanced options like PRP and biologics, these treatments can help patients manage symptoms and delay the need for surgery. While they’re not a cure for arthritis, injections can significantly improve quality of life when used appropriately. Speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action based on your individual condition and needs.
